Forces loyal to retired Libyan General Khalifa Haftar have claimed responsibility for recent airstrikes in the capital Tripoli.
Saqer al-Jouroushi, one of Haftar's senior officers, officially confirmed on Monday that they “have conducted airstrikes” on some locations “belonging to Misrata militias."
The militias have been battling with their rivals from the town of Zintan for control of the capital, particularly its main international airport, since July 13.
Early on Monday, Tripoli residents reported jets flying over the city followed by explosions. According to authorities, at least six people were killed in the attacks.
"The explosions were clearly heard in eastern districts of Tripoli," a resident said.
The battles in the capital are part of the chaotic situation posing security concerns all over the country.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said in a statement on Sunday that it "deeply regrets that there was no response to the repeated international appeals and its own efforts for an immediate ceasefire."
On August 14, Libya’s newly elected parliament asked the UN for a military intervention to protect civilians amid relentless clashes.
The legislative body also voted to dissolve rival militias, giving them an ultimatum to join the military and police by the end of 2014.
However, following the parliament’s vote, thousands of Libyans staged nationwide demonstrations to express their dissatisfaction with the plea for foreign military intervention in the North African state.
Nearly three years after the overthrow of former dictator Muammar Gaddafi, Libya is still grappling with rising insecurity.
Violence has worsened in recent weeks, forcing foreign countries to evacuate their nationals.
